Sumlin is officially new A&M football coach

Editor’s note: Brent Zwerneman reports at 4:33 p.m. that Texas A&M has made it official that Kevin Sumlin is the new football coach.

“Having coached there before, I understand the culture and embrace the commitment by the 12th Man regarding Aggie football,” Sumlin said. “I look forward to working with the young men (there) … and recruiting the type of players we need to be successful in the SEC.”

From Texas A&M athletic director Bill Byrne on Sumlin: “I believe he is the right person to lead our football program into the Southeastern Conference.

“He is also one heck of a recruiter and he will put together a great staff.”

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COLLEGE STATION – Kevin Sumlin told his team this afternoon that he’s leaving Houston for another opportunity, according to the Houston Chronicle’s Sam Khan. That opportunity is Texas A&M, according to multiple insiders.

A&M officials have said so far Saturday nothing is official in terms Sumlin’s hiring. The former A&M offensive coordinator will replace Mike Sherman, who was fired by school president R. Bowen Loftin on Dec. 1 following four seasons and a 25-25 record.

An A&M official said no press conference will be held today in College Station concerning the hire of a new coach. The press conference likely will be Monday.